The messenger of nature, Nowruz, is back with glad tidings of unadulterated and unmatched beauty and joy.

This program is about Nowruz, a cultural bridge uniting people.

Afghans have begun Nowruz or Persian New Year amid violence and bloodshed. This year, however, the government has organized special events to relieve sufferings of the residents of the war-torn country.

As the Persian New Year nears, Iranians are gearing up to celebrate the festive occasion amid restrictions.

Nowruz marks the first day of spring and is celebrated on the day of the astronomical vernal equinox, which usually occurs on March 21.

Nowruz is being celebrated in Italy. A number of events attended by many Italians have been organized in Rome and other cities across the country to mark the Persian new year.

People in Indian-controlled Kashmir are celebrating Persian New Year with great enthusiasm. Our correspondent Shahana Butt has filed a report about the traditions of Nowruz in Kashmir.